There is a unique terror attached to attempting to seek out just the right makeup brush in a world of so very, very many. This is understandable — sure, you can tell what brushes are for, but determining the correct ways to use them is a different story entirely.
Brushes for your face, brushes for your eyes, brushes for your brows: They’re all out there, and they’re all pretty much essential for getting your makeup on just right. So, as a public service, we’ve rounded up a guide to makeup brushes you’ll want to get your hands on post haste. (And, of course, how to use all 18 of ’em.)
More: 11 Cheap Makeup Brushes to Buy ASAP
1. Fan brush
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The unassuming fan brush has several key purposes: You can use it to sweep on blush, blend other makeup, clean up excess powder, and brush a light layer of highlighter along the cheekbones. (e.l.f. Fan Brush, $2)
2. Brow brush
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Necessary for filling in your brows with powder — a good brow brush should be angled so that you can tackle even the thin tail-ends. (Japonesque Pro Angled Brow Definer Brush, $14)
3. Powder brush
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The most ubiquitous of all brushes, the powder brush should be in every makeup collection—use it to apply any type of powder product. (Real Techniques by Sam & Nic Chapman Powder Brush, $7.99)
4. Eye blending brush
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The name is a dead giveaway: This brush is a must-have for blending eyeshadow into your lids. (Bobbi Brown Eye Blender Brush, $34)
5. Lip brush
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Use the tiny squared-off tip of a lip brush to get a crisp, defined line of color. (Charlotte Tilbury Lip Brush, $26)
6. Kabuki brush
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With its wide rounded bristles and super soft feel, the kabuki is perfect for applying everything from loose powders to bronzer and highlighter. (bareMinerals Full Coverage Kabuki Brush, $28)
7. Angled eye brush
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Use a small angled eye brush with gel liner or powder shadows to get a perfectly defined eye look. (Target $5)
8. Eyeshadow brush
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The tapered but soft bristles of this brush make it perfect for precise shadow application. (Jane Iredale $20)
9. Angled face brush
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The easiest way to add definition to your face—just sweep on some bronzer in the hollows of your cheeks using a fluffy angled brush. Perfect for applying blush or highlighter, too. (Ulta $26)
10. Concealer brush
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Firm, narrow, and tapered at the end, concealer brushes are the best way to put concealer exactly where it needs to go. (Nordstrom $25)
11. Smudge brush
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Score a smokey eye with a soft-bristled smudge brush. (Nordstrom, $24)
12. Brow brush and comb
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You can use this multipurpose tool for grooming both your lashes and brows—comb through your lashes to get mascara clumps out, and use the brush to perfect your brows. (Sephora, $15)
13. Blending sponge
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Not technically a brush, but an essential tool nonetheless. Perfect for using with liquid foundations, concealers, and pretty much anything, it leaves skin with a smooth, flawless finish. (beautyblender, $20)
Originally posted on StyleCaster.com